Rickshaw Drivers Protest Ban in Karachi, Paralyse City Centre with Road Blockade

Rickshaw drivers in Karachi staged a disruptive protest outside the Karachi Press Club on Monday, blocking roads with their vehicles in opposition to a recent ban on their movement across 11 major city roads.

The demonstration, organised by the Rickshaw Association, caused severe traffic jams in central Karachi. Commuters were left stranded for over an hour in sweltering heat, with several forced to walk long distances amid gridlock.

Protesters deliberately parked rickshaws along key arteries surrounding the Press Club, bringing public and private transport to a standstill. The protest ended peacefully, but not before causing widespread disruption.

The ban, announced by city officials last week, restricts rickshaw operations on major routes such as Shahrah-e-Faisal and I.I. Chundrigar Road, citing safety and congestion concerns.

The Rickshaw Association has condemned the decision, calling it unfair and harmful to drivers’ livelihoods. They are demanding immediate withdrawal of the restrictions and open dialogue with authorities.

“If our concerns are ignored, we will intensify our protests,” warned one rickshaw driver at the scene.